Reed & Barton Sterling Silver Asparagus Tong or Serving Fork
Flatware - Serving Piece · Reed & Barton, founded in 1824 in Taunton, Massachusetts. Originally established as Babbitt & Crossman, it became Reed & Barton in 1840. Renowned globally for high-quality sterling silver and silver-plated hollowware and flatware, serving as an iconic American silversmithing manufacturer.
Pattern: Unidentified or custom Reed & Barton serving fork design, likely late 19th or early 20th century. Reed & Barton produced numerous patented and proprietary decorative patterns ranging from Victorian revival to Art Nouveau styles.
Type
Flatware - Serving Piece
Maker
Reed & Barton, founded in 1824 in Taunton, Massachusetts. Originally established as Babbitt & Crossman, it became Reed & Barton in 1840. Renowned globally for high-quality sterling silver and silver-plated hollowware and flatware, serving as an iconic American silversmithing manufacturer.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). As indicated by standard American maker's markings, the piece is composed of 92.5 percent pure silver alloyed with copper for structural durability.
Dimensions
Standard serving implement size, roughly 18 to 22 cm in length, with an estimated weight between 60 to 100 grams depending on the specific gauge of silver.
Description
An elegant American sterling silver serving implement by Reed & Barton, featuring a distinctive multi-loop form designed for specialized dining service. The piece displays the classic craftsmanship of one of America's premier silversmiths, combining aesthetic appeal with functional utility.
Key Features
Clear 'R&B' maker's mark in a rectangle, solid sterling silver composition, specialized loop-handle configuration, and high-quality late-Victorian American craftsmanship.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). As indicated by standard American maker's markings, the piece is composed of 92.5 percent pure silver alloyed with copper for structural durability.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish with detailed die-struck and cast functional loops. The design incorporates elegant curved loops typical of specialized serving pieces like asparagus tongs, pastry servers, or specialty forks.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Features the distinct 'R&B' maker's mark enclosed within a rectangular cartouche, characteristic of Reed & Barton productions. Additional faded script or patent stamps may be present along the spine.
Construction Details
Die-struck and hand-finished construction. The functional loops are cast or formed and securely joined, exhibiting quality American manufacturing standards from the turn of the 20th century.
Functional Features
Designed as a specialized serving fork or scissor-action tong, likely intended for serving delicate foods such as asparagus, pastries, or small side dishes during formal dining.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid sterling silver open-loop handles designed for an ergonomic finger grip, allowing for precise control during service. Integral cast loops form the handle structure.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality American manufacturing showing precise die-struck shaping, clean finishing lines, and balanced weight distribution indicative of Reed & Barton's factory standards.
Authentication Indicators
The crisp 'R&B' rectangular hallmark stamp, appropriate weight and metal density, correct period manufacturing techniques, and natural surface aging confirm authenticity.
Origin & Manufacturing
Manufactured in Taunton, Massachusetts, USA, by skilled artisans utilizing advanced industrial and traditional silversmithing techniques of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Era & Period
Late Victorian to Edwardian Period (circa 1880-1910), reflecting the height of elaborate dining customs and specialized silver serving pieces in the United States.
Age Estimate
Circa 1885-1915, inferred from the specific style of the 'R&B' block hallmark stamp and the prevalence of specialized hollowware and serving flatware during this era.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the elaborate formal dining rituals of the late Victorian and Gilded Age periods, where specialized silver utensils for every course were status symbols among the affluent.
Condition Notes
Good antique condition with moderate surface wear, micro-scratches consistent with gentle use and age, and a pleasing natural tarnish that highlights the detailed contours. Structurally sound with no visible repairs.
Value Estimate
Market value generally ranges from $100 to $250 USD depending on the exact weight, specific pattern rarity, and collector demand for specialty serving utensils.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash gently with mild dish soap and warm water. Polish occasionally with a reputable silver cream (such as Wright's Silver Cream) and a soft microfiber cloth. Store in an anti-tarnish flannel pouch or Pacific Silvercloth wrap.
Similar Pieces
Similar specialty serving pieces produced by contemporary American competitors such as Gorham, Tiffany & Co., and Wallace Silversmiths.
Interesting Facts
Reed & Barton provided prestigious silver services for the executive mansion in Washington D.C. and produced exquisite presentation pieces, gaining an international reputation for excellence at various world expositions.
Notes
Fork